Hammersmith Bridge

Nicholas Rogers: Hammersmith Bridge has been closed to vehicular traffic since April 2019 and additionally closed to pedestrians, cyclists and passing river traffic since August 2020. What lessons does the Mayor believe have been learnt in terms of resilience planning and what plans do you now have to mitigate the long-term loss or closure of a critical piece of city infrastructure such as Hammersmith Bridge?

The Mayor: Following the initial closure of Hammersmith Bridge in April 2019, Transport for London (TfL) worked closely with the bridge’s owner, the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham (LBHF), on plans for the full repair of the bridge as well as options for a temporary crossing. TfL is now progressing plans for a temporary ferry for pedestrians and cyclists. Plans for the full repair have been shared with the Department for Transport and Hammersmith Bridge Taskforce.
All TfL-owned infrastructure and assets are subject to a thorough programme of inspections and assessments. This programme helps to establish that the asset is fit for purpose and in a State of Good Repair (SGR) in-line with industry best practice. It also helps TfL to determine where investment is needed and whether any interim measures are required to maintain safe operation.
TfL’s budget for maintenance and asset renewals was substantially reduced in 2018/19 and 2019/20 due to the removal of TfL’s revenue subsidy by the Government. This impacted both TfL’s assets, as well as the Local Implementation Plan (LIP) funding it provides to London boroughs. This resulted in a pause on things like bridge strengthening and road maintenance works.
The effect of this pause is an increase in the number of temporary road closures and interim measures required on London’s road network. For example, the speed limit on the A40 Westway has had to be lowered to lessen the impact on its ageing structure, and restrictions on the types of vehicles able to use Rotherhithe Tunnel have had to be introduced. As a result, pressure on TfL’s reactive maintenance budgets has increased substantially.
TfL has a plan to bring all its assets back up to a State of Good Repair. This is set out in the Long Term Capital Plan (as discussed in https://content.tfl.gov.uk/tfl-independent-panel-review-december-2020.pdf) but this is dependent upon financial support from the Government. The support TfL can provide to London’s boroughs for bridge strengthening and road maintenance – through the LIP – is also dependent upon Government support.

Green Roofs on Bus Stops

Joanne McCartney: Further to my MQ 2019/19997, can you update me on TfL's trial of green roofs? Are there plans to roll-out further green roofs on bus stops?

The Mayor: Please see my response to Mayor's Question2021/1417.

Discounted off-peak travel to aid the recovery of central London

Siân Berry: Will you bring forward proposals for cheaper off-peak travel on Transport for London (TfL) services, particularly for journeys from outer London into central London, in order to aid the recovery of central London?

The Mayor: For London to remain a leading world city it is essential that central London makes a strong recovery from the pandemic. Affordable public transport will be a key part of this. To encourage visitors to travel to all corners of central London and experience the range of fantastic attractions on offer, I froze fares for travel within Zone 1 as part of the March 2021 fares revision.
However, the right balance must be struck between encouraging travel through great value fares and ensuring social distancing is possible on public transport for as long as it is necessary. At the same time, it is important to recognise that Transport for London is highly dependent on fares income, meaning that its finances have been severely impacted by the pandemic.
Off-peak fares already offer great value for travel during quieter periods. On weekdays, off-peak pay as you go fares apply before 6:30 a.m., between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. and after 7 p.m. Pay as you go fares to Zone 1 in the evening rush hour (4 p.m. to 7 p.m.) are already charged at the off-peak rate. At weekends and public holidays, all pay as you go fares are charged at the off-peak rate.
As I set out in my manifesto, to make the best use of the network, I have asked TfL to explore the use of more dynamic fare pricing. As part of this, TfL will look at new pricing mechanisms to encourage customers to explore different ways of travelling – including fares that reflect changing demand levels at different times, or different places across the network.

Boundary Charge (13)

Peter Fortune: How many non-Londoners does Transport for London estimate visit Greater London by car?

The Mayor: Every weekday around 1.35 million vehicle trips are made from outside London into thecapital.Around one million of these trips are into outer London alone and the majority of these journeys are made by vehicles registered to addresses outside of the Greater London boundary. This will be investigated further by TfL as part of the feasibility study into a potential Greater London Boundary Charge for non-residents.

E-scooters and the dangers they present, Brent and Harrow Constituency

Krupesh Hirani: I understand that over the past year TFL and the MPS have been concentrating on educating e-scooter riders about the legislation and dangers they pose to the public. Can I ask for all data recorded on these interactions since 2019?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service’s (MPS) Roads and Transport Policing Command, which is jointly funded by Transport for London, has issued around 600 warnings across London for the illegal use of e-scooters, including giving advice about the law on e-scooters.
Enforcement and any associated punishment of the illegal use of private e-scooters remains with the Police, and the MPS will continue to take enforcement action against illegal e-scooters during the trial.
TfL, London Councils and the participating London boroughs are preparing for the start of the rental e-scooter trial in London on Monday 7 June. Following a competitive procurement process Dott, Lime and TIER have been selected as the Operators for the trial of which safety will be the number one objective.
In addition to the Operators’ marketing campaigns, which will focus heavily on safety and the various safety mechanisms in place, TfL are preparing a centralised information campaign that will make it clear the rental trial is the only legal way to use e-scooters in London. More detailed safety messaging will also be available on the main trial website once it has launched.

School signage in the North East Constituency

Sem Moema: Please confirm that TfL road safety engineers reviewed the signage around Hackney New Primary School during week beginning 22 February and made any necessary adjustments to ensure the safety of local school children, as you stated would happen in your earlier answer to my predecessor?

The Mayor: Since my earlier response, Transport for London (TfL) has been working closely with the London Borough of Hackney as the roads around the school are both TfL and borough roads. It has been agreed that the borough will lead on any improvements that are needed, including signage, establishing a new footway layout and the changes that the landowner of 333 Kingsland Road will need to make on Enfield Road. TfL has also agreed to provide some funding to assist with the changes and will support with any physical changes required on-street.
TfL is keeping ward councillors in the area up to date on the situation as everyone works together to solve the concerns raised. A further update can be provided once the final plans have been issued by the London Borough of Hackney.

Economic Impact of the Congestion Charge Increase

Shaun Bailey: What work have you undertaken to assess the economic impact of your congestion charge increase?

The Mayor: The temporary changes to the Congestion Charge were introduced in June 2020 as an emergency response to the transport challenges presented by the pandemic.
In advance of making the temporary changes, Transport for London (TfL) undertook an Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA) to assess the impacts of the changes, including an economic impact assessment. TfL concluded that the temporary changes would have an overall positive economic impact, noting the benefits of reduced traffic and congestion and the positive impact on journey times and reliability this would have, which in turn could reduce business costs. The full IIA can be found here: www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/appendices_1-4_1.pdf
TfL is keeping the changes under review to ensure their continued effectiveness as a response to the transport challenges of the pandemic

Pedestrian crossings

Elly Baker: For the 73 junctions that are part of the Safer Junctions programme can you confirm which of them have a) Pedestrian Refuges/Islands; b) Zebra Crossings; c) Pelican Crossings; d) Puffin Crossings; e) Toucan Crossings; or f) no pedestrian crossings?

The Mayor: The Safer Junctions programme was announced in April 2017, and improvements have now been delivered at 41 sites out of the original 73 on the programme. As some of the junctions were completed before 2017, this level of detail is not readily available (but can be provided at a later date, if required).
To date, we have seen a 25 per cent reduction in collisions across the Safer Junction programme (as at March 2020). Transport for London (TfL) continues to monitor all junctions and will have more meaningful data when London travel patterns return to a more normal state following the pandemic.
TfL would be happy to meet with you to discuss the past and future safety programme. This includes plans for further pedestrian crossings across the network in 2021/22, subject to the constraints of the Government funding deal agreed on 1 June following the devastating impact of the pandemic on TfL’s finances.

Violent crime and social media

Unmesh Desai: If possible, please advise how many violent offences in the last 4 years have been connected with threats made via social media or online?

The Mayor: Please see my response to Mayor's Question 2021/1750 for counts of violent crime that include an online element.
There is currently no proportionate means of identifying whether social media was connected to reports of violent crime. This would require each individual report to be read to identify if social media was an element to the offence.

Tackling illegal drug related crime

Unmesh Desai: What are some of the new and innovative ways of tackling drug related crime that you are considering implementing in London?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) have been using innovative new enforcement tactics. For example, through Operation Venetic, which identified criminal networks through encrypted phones, there have been 257 arrests, 1083kg of Class A and 616kg of Class B drugs have been recovered and disruptions to criminal networks. Another example is the MPS’s work to reduce harm and prevent drug related death where they are working closely with Drug Related Death and Substance Misuse Panels in Hackney and Tower Hamlets to identify those most at risk and ensure joined up working between agencies.
My Office for Policing and Crime will also work closely with our health partners to bring criminal justice into the health agenda at a local and pan-London level in order to develop better pathways into treatment for offenders who misuse substances, with the joint aims of reducing harm and reoffending.
I will also establish a London Drugs Commission comprising independent experts and leading figures from the fields of criminal justice, public health, politics, community relations and academia. Looking at the evidence in the round, and from across the globe, the Commission will come forward with policy recommendations in this space. In the absence of any powers as Mayor to change the law, I hope that the work of the Commission will provoke an overdue national debate.

London Drug Commission

Leonie Cooper: The Prime Minister has said it is a “waste of time” as the Mayor has no powers on the matter, but can the Mayor update me on his plans for the London drug commission?

The Mayor: Work on the London Drugs Commission is at a very early stage and no final decisions have been made. I will update the Assembly further on this matter in due course.

Action to reach Vision Zero goal

Siân Berry: In your 2021 election manifesto you said you would: “accelerate the roll out of 20 mph speed limits on the TfL road network,” and: “improve the safety of the most dangerous junctions, including a programme of new pedestrian crossings at those junctions currently lacking them.” When will you announce the investment and commitment to bring these pledges into action?

The Mayor: Within my Vision Zero Action Plan, I committed to introducing a 20mph speed limit on all of the Transport for London Road Network (TLRN) within the central London Congestion Charging zone, which was delivered in March 2020. In addition, I committed to delivering a programme to reduce speed limits on other locations on the TLRN to address areas of high road danger, delivered over the period until 2024. This programme currently involves the introduction of 20mph speed limits on 140km of TfL roads by the end of the 2024/25 financial year. Through my manifesto pledge I have made a commitment to accelerate this work as well as to improve safety at the most dangerous junctions within the capital with a programme of new pedestrian crossings. TfL is currently drafting a plan to set out how this work might be undertaken, subject to the constraints of the Government funding deal agreed on 1 June following the devastating impact of the pandemic on TfL’s finances.

London’s offer to small businesses

Marina Ahmad: It was welcome to see your manifesto pledged to develop London’s offer to SMEs and the self-employed, creating the most advanced and integrated business support offer that London has seen, with a range of programmes helping start-ups and scale-ups across the key sectors of our economy. Given the amount of support required to help businesses recover from the pandemic, do you have a timeline for this work yet?

The Mayor: The work to help support these businesses is well underway, with all existing business support programmes pivoting to meet the impacts of the pandemic on London’s SMEs. This includes a property advice service, a panel of Brexit expert advisers, a programme to support business leaders through recovery, a series of peer networks, one-to-one advice and a programme of online events. Growing businesses can also access support from my International Business Programme, which is delivering virtual trade missions, and the Business Growth programme managed by London & Partners.
Later this year my London Business Hub will be launching new programmes to support new businesses emerging from the post-pandemic economy, targeted support for sectors more adversely affected by the pandemic and activity to help SMEs access supply chain opportunities within the public and private sectors.
I will also be undertaking a review of existing business support activity across London this year. I’ll work with boroughs and other partners to further transform small business support across the Capital. The purpose of this is to provide a single front door so business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs can easily access the right advice and support. This will further increase the quality of our support activity to provide a more efficient and effective service to our business community.

Ensuring consistency in Transport for London fines

Siân Berry: Further to our discussion during the 2021-22 budget process, have you had any response from the Department for Transport to proposals for Transport for London (TfL) to increase the Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) rate for illegal parking on red routes to match the congestion charge?

The Mayor: The Department for Transport wrote to Transport for London (TfL) in March 2021 following my initial query about bringing the Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) fine level for moving traffic contraventions on TfL’s road network in line with the fine level for Congestion Charging. The letter stated that TfL would need to present a strong case demonstrating that a higher fine level is necessary and appropriate to ensure compliance and support network management objectives, and that it can be justified at a time when we are facing a difficult period of recovery from the pandemic. TfL is working to develop this case.

Bus Rapid Transit (2)

Elly Baker: Can you confirm which current bus routes TfL consider to be 'Bus Rapid Transit' services? And what plans you have for future services?

The Mayor: There are no routes considered to be distinct ‘Bus Rapid Transit’ (BRT) routes although some routes such as the ‘EL’ route network use infrastructure that was designed to BRT standards in the Barking Riverside area.
Transport for London, as part of its planning process obligations under the Town Country Planning (Mayor of London) Order 2008, review large scale developments and redevelopment areas, such as Opportunity Areas, to establish what future public transport requirements are needed to support growth.There may be some areas where elements of Bus Rapid Transit can be delivered to stimulate sustainable growth and reduce the environmental impact of new development as per the policies set out in the Mayor’s Transport Strategy.

Modernise the Cycle Hire Scheme (1)

Elly Baker: TfL’s Programme and Investment Committee papers for 11 December 2020 say, “a programme of works has started to modernise, electrify and expand the cycle hire system”. Please provide me with further details of what this program entails and how the January 2021 implementation is progressing?

The Mayor: I am delighted at the extraordinary success of our Cycle Hire scheme in recent years, and particularly with the role it has played helping keep Londoners moving during the pandemic.
TfL is planning to replace the scheme’s existing back office systems. This will enable more customer-friendly features and a more flexible tariff structure. These changes are currently being developed.
TfL and Santander are developing plans to introduce around 500 new e-bikes into the Santander Cycles scheme from Summer 2022.
I have also asked TfL to explore options for a significant expansion of Santander Cycles as part of my manifesto. TfL is assessing the existing scheme area and hire trends and is looking at areas that have a good provision of cycle lanes and cycling infrastructure.
TfL will work with boroughs who are supportive of expanding Santander Cycles further and new boroughs who would like to join the scheme and will explore a range of options for funding new docking stations with them, including developer funding, to ensure they are financially viable.

20mph Speed Limit (1)

Elly Baker: On 2 March 2020 a 20mph speed limit was introduced on all 8.9km of TfL roads within the Congestion Charging Zone and TfL aims to introduce safer speed limits across a further 140km of its road network. Can you provide further details on when 20mph will be introduced on this 140km of TfL roads?

The Mayor: Please see my response to Mayor’s Question 2021/1473.

Lighting Strategies

Elly Baker: In March 2021 the Centre for London produced the report “Seeing clearly: How lighting can make London a better city”. I would be interested in your response to the recommendations that you: a) provide a framework that boroughs can build on to develop their lighting strategies; b) provide Supplementary Planning Guidance setting out how light should be treated in planning applications; c) create a hub for lighting resources; and d) provide guidance on how London boroughs should develop lighting strategies

The Mayor: I welcome Centre for London’s Seeing Clearly report which I jointly commissioned. It highlights how essential lighting is to London’s success as a welcoming, safe, more sustainable and vibrant 24 Hour City. I am committed to supporting safe active travel at night, including walking and cycling, and to collaborate with local authorities on plans for lighting.
My new London Plan asks every borough to create a Night Time Vision and my Night Czar is supporting them to do this. I have published Night Time Strategy Guidance for local authorities which underlines the importance of local lighting strategies and provides examples of successful lighting schemes from around the world.
My Public London Charter and Guide to Delivering Healthy High Streets also support the provision of lighting to help make night time activities accessible and inclusive. In April, five more bridges were lit as part of Illuminated River artwork, a unified light installation by artist Leo Villareal across the River Thames.
Best practice on lighting is shared via my Night Time Borough Champions Network and my Night Czar’s Night Surgeries as well as via the High Streets Network. I will continue to support local authorities and champion the importance of good lighting for London’s communities and our economy after dark.

Crimes Committed on E-Scooters Across London (2)

Caroline Pidgeon: What work is being done to ensure that the electric e-scooter trial of hire e-scooters starting in Spring this year will have safeguards in place to prevent/address criminal activity connected to their use?

The Mayor: For the trial of rental e-scooters in London, a number of measures have been put in place to reduce the risk they are used in criminal activity. All trial vehicles will all have a highly visible unique identification number, tracking installed and robust rider verification processes to check the identity, age and licence validity of registered riders. The vehicles are fitted with geo-fencing technology, meaning the e-scooters will only be able to be left in designated zones, identified by participating boroughs, and will be brought to a safe stop if taken into designated ‘no go’ zones like tunnels. The vehicles have anti-tamper screws, cables and components; locked wheels; and movement alerts to prevent theft or vandalism. Operators, Transport for London, participating London boroughs and the police will work together to monitor and respond to any criminal or antisocial behaviour associated with their use.
Policing and enforcement of the illegal use of private e-scooters remains with the police and will continue during the trial.

TfL’s failure to replace Director of Bus Operations in a timely fashion

Keith Prince: From press reports circulating in early December 2020 (https://www.globalrailwayreview.com/news/115150/claire-mann-south-wester...), I understand that TfL’s Director of Bus Operations already accepted a job as Managing Director of Southwestern Railway. Given TfL’s record of failure in improving Bus Safety Performance and protecting Bus Drivers from Covid-19 under your leadership as TfL Chair, what justification can you provide for keeping that Director in her role so long after she had accepted outside employment from a FirstGroup-owned transport operator?

The Mayor: Transport for London (TfL) reluctantly accepted the resignation of Claire Mann from her role as the Director of Bus Operations as she has played a pivotal role in introducing safer bus technologies to drive down casualties in the long term and led the introduction of measures across the bus fleet to help protect drivers from COVID-19. TfL is grateful for her leadership and for working her full contractual notice period to provide stability during a period of unprecedented challenges. The process to fill one of TfL’s most senior and influential roles is not one that can be rushed and must be handled with appropriate care to ensure the best candidate is found. The contractual notice period for directors is always of sufficient length to foster business continuity and support organisational resilience in the face of significant change.

20mph Speed Limit (2)

Elly Baker: How much of the 580km Transport for London Road Network is 20mph? What plans do you have to make more of it 20mph over and above the 140km previously announced?

The Mayor: Reducing speed is fundamental to reducing road danger and to achieving my Vision Zero ambition for all deaths and serious injuries to be eliminated from London’s streets by 2041. This is because a lower speed limit reduces both the probability and severity of a collision.
79.2km of the Transport for London Road Network (TLRN) is currently 20mph. Please refer to my response to Mayor’s Question 2021/1473 for information on Transport for London’s (TfL’s) future plans, which include the introduction of 20mph speed limits on 140km of TfL roads by the end of the 2024/25 financial year.
I have also asked TfL to look for opportunities across the wider Healthy Streets programme where speed limits can be reduced by 10 mph (which may be 30 to 20mph or 60 to 50mph), as part of other route or corridor improvements.

The Bus Driver Fatigue Report

Elly Baker: The August 2019 report outlines several solutions broadly split into five categories: Education, working conditions, Schedules and rosters, Open culture and Health (including sleep health). Can you outline what steps TfL has taken to implement each solution?

The Mayor: The research into bus driver fatigue conducted by Loughborough University and the Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI) set out solutions that Transport for London (TfL) could consider for bus driver fatigue. These were split into five categories and TfL has several projects within its Bus Fatigue Programme to address these.
TfL provides regular updates to the GLA Transport Committee on its progress with the Bus Fatigue Programme. The last published update was from 12 February 2021 and can be found at: https://www.london.gov.uk/about-us/londonassembly/meetings/documents/s89052/Appendix%203%20-%20Tram%20and%20Bus%20Safety%20Follow%20up%20Letter%20-%20Commissioner%20to%20Chair.pdf
Under the category of education, TfL is three quarters of the way to completing fatigue management training. The subject is also covered in the bespoke Destination Zero driver safety training course. TfL has provided a fatigue risk assessment tool to all its operators to help them assess the training needs of schedulers. It has also launched the 2021 Bus Safety Innovation Challenge to fund further safety initiatives from bus operators.
Its working conditions worksteam continues to build on providing better toilets and Covid-safe rest space on the network for bus drivers. TfL continues to check the maintenance standard of its fleet through Engineering Quality Monitoring (EQM).
Under the schedules and rosters workstream, the first phase of its fatigue risk assessment tool project is underway to help operators assess their areas. TfL is also developing a fatigue detection technology project to help operators look for potential links between fatigue incidents and the schedules and rosters drivers work.
In the open culture workstream, all 10 operators have a fatigue risk management system in place. This is supported by training which encourages open discussions with drivers and learning. The previous Bus Safety Innovation Challenge led to operators trialling fatigue detection technology. This will be built upon with a fatigue detection project so all 10 bus operators can get experience of this technology. The current 2021 Bus Safety Innovation Challenge may lead to further operator-led initiatives.
Within the Health (including sleep health) area, many solutions now sit in the Driver Health and Wellbeing Programme, which arose out of the research TfL commissioned from University College London into bus driver deaths from COVID-19. These include fatigue management training for operational supervisors so that they can help bring sleep health improvements into their workplaces. The forthcoming 2021 Bus Safety Innovation Challenge may recommend further proposals in this area.

Green roofs on bus shelters

Caroline Pidgeon: Further to your answer to 2019/17308 please set out the timetable for the evaluation of the trial of five green bus shelters and the process that the evaluation will feed into TfL’s longer term bus shelter renewal programme.

The Mayor: Transport for London (TfL) has monitored the five green bus shelter roofs in Lewisham since they were planted at the end of September 2020 (planting was delayed due to pandemic working restrictions). Once the full growing season is over, TfL can determine whether the design used and the planting created have been effective.
Further understanding of the benefits and ongoing maintenance implications is required before TfL can advise whether a wider roll out will offer best value, or whether other options would be more cost-effective.
TfL remains committed to increasing biodiversity across London and is looking at all the options available for doing this. This includes managing verges to encourage wildflowers, improvements to shrub beds, tree planting, and exploring other opportunities to utilise its asset base to contribute further.

Funding / Grants for small businesses due to COVID-19 pandemic in the North East Constituency (2)

Sem Moema: Please provide details of how you have lobbied government in order to support small businesses manage their rising debts due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With many small business owners facing the prospect of bankruptcy, how will you ensure the right support going forward?

The Mayor: I have been clear with Government that financial support for businesses should be in place for as long as social distancing and travel restrictions remain in place and must cover any period of restrictions on businesses’ ability to trade viably; until sufficient levels of footfall and tourism return to our high streets and central London.
My London Covid Business Forum have also asked Government through the London Roadmap that businesses have access to affordable working capital in the longer term, recognising that many businesses have taken on large amounts of debt with repayments starting for some in March this year.
My London Business Hub continues to support SMEs across the capital, helping businesses be more resilient. SMEs continue to make use of our one-to-one-adviser support, become investment ready; and prepare for the lift of the ban on commercial rent evictions through our Property Advice Service.

Misleading Statements about Middle Door Boarding and Covid-19 Risk Reduction

Keith Prince: At 8 March 2021’s Transport Committee, in response to questions from me, the Transport Commissioner gave TfL’s decision to implement Middle Door Boarding on 17 April 2020 as an example of an action that was taken to protect bus drivers from Covid-19 risk. Yet, the 16 April 2020 “Briefing Note” you provided to me (but did not publish) in response to question 2020/1728 clearly states in paragraph 5 that “this [Middle Door Boarding] trial did not assess the specific risk to drivers in the cab environment, or whether this change reduced the risk to drivers in the cab”. Since TfL’s own analysis did not even address the question, will you instruct the Transport Commissioner, TfL executives and your City Hall colleagues to refrain from offering Middle Door Boarding as an example of an action that protected bus drivers from Covid-19?

The Mayor: The decision to trial middle-door boarding was taken in good faith by all the main parties involved to reduce potential risks to drivers. At that stage of the COVID-19 pandemic, Transport for London did not have the University College London (UCL) research to guide it, and was responding to concerns from Unite the Union that keeping customers at least two metres away from the cab would help reduce the risk to drivers. TfL announced a return to front-door boarding following evidence from the UCL research team suggesting that extra protection to the screen made it safe to do so.

Boundary Charge (9)

Peter Fortune: As part of TfL’s initial traffic assessment of a Greater London Boundary Charge what is the estimated reduction of the total number of weekday trips broken down by Outer London borough?

The Mayor: Initial estimates suggest a scheme like a potential Greater London Boundary Charge for non-residents - if levied at £3.50 a day and applying only to non-Londoners - could reduce the total number of weekday car trips across the GLA boundary by around 8 per cent. As part of the feasibility study into a potential Greater London Boundary Charge, Transport for London is undertaking an initial exercise to look into this and other impacts in more detail, including on the environment, health, equality and the economy. The findings of the study will be published later in the year.

Dog Thefts

Joanne McCartney: What actions are the Metropolitan Police Service taking to combat the increase in dog thefts in London?

The Mayor: The Metropolitan Police (MPS) have issued guidance on their website to try and ensure safety of owners and dogs alike:
https://www.met.police.uk/police-forces/metropolitan-police/areas/campai...
The MPS are monitoring the issue and published a stolen animals dashboard that can be found here:
https://www.met.police.uk/sd/stats-and-data/met/stolen-animals-dashboard

Hammersmith Ferry (1)

Nicholas Rogers: Will the Mayor ensure ferry operating hours are integrated with local bus timetables and that the needs of the elderly and those with mobility issues are addressed in terms of lengths of walks to bus stops?

The Mayor: The planned hours of operation for the new temporary ferry service are 06:00 to 22:00 on weekdays, and 08:00 to 22:00 at weekends.
Transport for London (TfL) is working at pace to identify what improvements to local transport services nearest to the ferry landing points can be implemented. This includes possible changes to local bus timetables to integrate more closely with the ferry’s start and finishing times. TfL is also working to identify possible changes to the location of local bus stops to support people with mobility issues. Further information on this will be made available at the earliest opportunity. I understand you met with TfL officers to discuss the scheme recently and that they have committed to sharing further details with you in the coming weeks.

Domestic abuse offenders managed through Multi Agency Public Protection Arrangements

Len Duvall: Please advise how many serial perpetrators of domestic abuse were managed at level one, level two and level three Multi Agency Public Protection Arrangements in London in 2018, 2019, 2020 and so far in 2021.

The Mayor: Such data would be held by the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) on ViSOR or by HMPPS on their systems. It is not possible for the MPS toextract data from the ViSOR system on how many of these offenders are serial domestic abuse offenders without going into each individual record. The MPS does not have access to the HMPPS systems.

London Drugs Commission Remuneration

Andrew Boff: Will the members of the London Drugs Commission receive any remuneration? If so, please specify how.

The Mayor: Work on the London Drugs Commission is at a very early stage and no final decisions have been made on its composition or remuneration of its members. I will update the Assembly on this matter in due course.

London Drugs Commission Timeline

Andrew Boff: In your manifesto you committed to “establish a London Drugs Commission comprising independent experts and leading figures from the fields of criminal justice, public health, politics, community relations and academia”. What is the timeline for this being established and what is the selection process and criteria for choosing members of the commission?

The Mayor: Work on the London Drugs Commission is at a very early stage and no final decisions have been made in relation to the selection of its members. I will update the Assembly on progress with the London Drugs Commission in due course.

CCTV on TfL Buses

Len Duvall: How are you working to ensure CCTV cameras on TfL buses are operational and turned on before leaving depots and that CCTV records are retained for a sufficient period of time?

The Mayor: There are a number of safeguards in place to help ensure CCTV cameras on buses are working and switched on. Bus operators are responsible for conducting routine maintenance of vehicles and the systems on board such as CCTV. The driver will also conduct an initial check of the vehicle for any obvious visible issues before taking the bus into service.
CCTV systems go through a commissioning audit by Transport for London (TfL) when the buses first join the fleet and the system is also connected to iBus software, meaning availability reports can be provided to bus operators and TfL as a form of assurance. Modern buses have up to 12 cameras and are required to retain footage for 240 hours. Authorised persons, such as Metropolitan Police officers, are aware of these timeframes and can request downloads following incidents of interest on the network. In the event of a request coming forward, the operators will retain the pictures for as long as necessary for these purposes.

The Mall, Walthamstow (2)

Emma Best: Can you confirm whether TfL will be providing an accessible entrance to Walthamstow Central tube station, as has been proposed as part of the planning application for redevelopment of The Mall in Walthamstow? Would it be acceptable for a scheme to be car free without proper accessibility to the nearby tube station?

The Mayor: The new Tube station entrance at Walthamstow Central will deliver Step Free Access from street to train. The scheme proposes two 26-person lifts, which would allow customers to travel from street to ticket hall level, where they could then take a second lift from the ticket hall to the Victoria line platforms. The scheme received planning approval from the London Borough of Waltham Forest in January 2021.The installation of these lifts would improve access for all customers using London Underground services and provide an accessible street level interchange with the London Overground and adjacent bus station.
Transport for London and the London Borough of Waltham Forest are working together to identify and pursue potential funding sources for this project. Start and delivery dates for this project will not be confirmed until funding is secured.

Boundary Charge (7)

Peter Fortune: How will TfL’s feasibility study measure the economic impact of a Greater London Boundary Charge?

The Mayor: I have asked TfL to undertake a feasibility study into a potential Greater London Boundary Charge for non-residents. Part of this work will be an initial assessment of the potential economic impacts of such a charge. TfL have been engaging with a range of stakeholders to help identify these impacts.
If, having reviewed the study, I ask TfL to progress the development of scheme options, there would be an assessment of these options from an economic perspective, including for example, the impacts on access to work, and the potential impact on commercial vehicles and town centres.

Likely carbon emissions increases from Silvertown Road Tunnel (2)

Siân Berry: The Energy and Carbon statement for the Silvertown Road Tunnel states that emissions due to the project would represent a 0.4 per cent increase in projected 2030 emissions for road transport in London. Given that this tunnel will have a high proportion of freight traffic which cannot be decarbonised as rapidly as other vehicles, will the proportion of London’s overall road emissions from traffic using the tunnel and approaches increase as you decarbonise other road transport and what analysis of this have you carried out?

The Mayor: In my response to Mayor’s Question 2021/1468, I explained Transport for London’s (TfL’s) current analysis on the expected composition of traffic at Blackwall Tunnel with and without the Silvertown Tunnel scheme in place. TfL does not expect the Silvertown Tunnel scheme to have a significant impact on the proportion of freight trips at this river crossing, and in fact expects the user charge to result in a small decrease in heavy freight traffic at Blackwall/Silvertown by discouraging such vehicles from diverting into London to avoid the Dartford Crossing charge.
TfL has clear plans to ensure it delivers the benefits and manages the impacts of the Silvertown Tunnel scheme, including those associated with freight transport emissions. TfL’s plans include further analysis with modelling and monitoring of traffic and emissions before and after the scheme is open, currently planned for 2025. This will build on the previous analysis that informed the Development Consent Order (DCO) application and be reported publicly through the Silvertown Tunnel Implementation Group. It will take into account new commitments since the DCO application, for example the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone and the wider decarbonisation of the transport network, including TfL’s bus fleet.
The Blackwall Tunnel is an important route for delivery and servicing traffic and, as a result, goods vehicles make up a larger proportion of all trips through the tunnel than on the overall road network. That said, the number of freight trips expected through the Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels is only a small fraction of overall freight in London.
While TfL is committed to further analysis of the effects of the Silvertown Tunnel on freight and associated emissions, it is also focused on analysing freight across London and working with industry partners to reduce freight emissions, including through innovative programmes such as LoCity. For example, HGV manufacturers such as DAF are developing battery electric versions of their vehicles (see https://www.daf.co.uk/en-gb/trucks/alternative-fuels-and-drivelines/battery-electric-vehicles), which will further reduce emissions while still ensuring deliveries are made in the future, and companies in the last-mile delivery sector are already using significant numbers of electric vehicles in London. As these and other businesses adapt their fleets with this new technology, there will be further reductions in emissions which will help to decarbonise the transport network and clean up London's toxic air. TfL’s wider analysis will continue to be published through the Travel in London reports.

Women’s Safety

Marina Ahmad: After the shocking murder of Sarah Everard in my constituency, what steps are the Metropolitan Police Service taking to keep women and girls safe on the streets?

The Mayor: The Met share and recognise the concerns of Londoners and are committed to doing everything they can to keep women and girls safe. Their teams across the city continue to work tirelessly to arrest offenders and their Predatory Offender Units have made over 1200 arrests since they were established in November 2020.
The Met have also stepped up reassurance patrols of open space across London to provide increased presence in key “hotspots’. I welcome the additional Government funding for projects like the Safer Streets scheme, which will complement the Met’s own measures to help women and girls feel safer on the streets as we come out of lockdown.
The introduction of protective tools such as Sexual Harm Prevention Orders, Sexual Risk Orders and Stalking Protection Orders in the Domestic Abuse Act will provide additional ways for the Met to protect those at risk.

Transport for London staff using body worn video (2)

Siân Berry: Will passengers using the Transport for London (TfL) network be notified that TfL staff are equipped with body worn video whenever it is in operational use?

The Mayor: Since November 2020, Transport for London (TfL) has run over 6,500 marketing posters in London Underground (LU) stations and at bus stops publicising the use of Body Worn Video (BWV) cameras, with nearly 2,000 posters added to the network in May.
Where it is safe to do so, and won’t escalate a situation, staff will inform a member of the public that Body Worn Video cameras will be activated.

Last-Mile Alternatives

Elly Baker: What funding has been provided by the GLA Group since May 2016 for greener last-mile alternatives for business?

The Mayor: Between 2017 and 2020 the Deliveries Reduction Fund (rebranded as Healthy Streets Fund for Business) awarded £284,400 in match funding to help businesses make more efficient deliveries, reduce congestion and enable employees to walk and cycle to work. Please see my response to Mayor’s Question 2021/1551 for more information. In addition, between 2017 and 2019, Transport for London funded projects trialling efficient freight concepts worth approximately £100,000.
Between them, these projects have reduced vehicle movements associated with waste removal, provided cargo bike storage, established a new freight hub in Hammersmith and are replacing cars and vans with cycle freight.
The Mayor’s Air Quality Fund (MAQF) also provides £22 million to help boroughs trial local measures to cut pollution and exposure to pollution, including working with businesses to reduce freight trips.

Modern day slavery

Susan Hall: For the financial years 2018/19, 2019/20 and 2020/21 how many instances of modern day slavery have been detected by the Met? Please provide a breakdown of slavery type e.g. domestic servitude

The Mayor: Please see the requested information attached.

The Mayor: 2156_Modern day slavery.xlsx

Violent crime and online flags

Unmesh Desai: How many violent crimes have had an ‘online’ flag in each of the last four years?

The Mayor: Please see the requested data in the table below:
Recorded Year
Violence with Injury
Violence without Injury
Grand Total
2017
10
847
857
2018
14
861
875
2019
5
983
988
2020
10
1393
1403
2021 (to 30/04/2021)
4
592
596
Grand Total
43
4676
4719
The count in this report is a count of classified and confirmed offences of Violence Against the Person across the MPS area with the online/internet enabled crime feature code present on the crime record.
Please refer to the Home Office counting rules for crime for the definitions of Violence Against the Person offences:https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/979918/count-violence-apr-2021.pdf

Private hire vehicles plying for hire in the Soho area

Caroline Pidgeon: What action is TfL intending to take to tackle private hire vehicles illegally plying for hire caught or idling in taxi ranks in the Soho area?

The Mayor: Transport for London (TfL) regularly deploys officers to monitor specific locations to ensure that licensed vehicles are not illegally plying for hire or causing an obstruction to the highway. To date, TfL has not identified any issues with private hire vehicles in this area.
TfL will continue to monitor these locations and any vehicles causing an obstruction will be moved on.
On the issue of private hire vehicles parking in taxi ranks, TfL is clear that they must not do so. If a private hire driver does idle in a taxi rank, they could be subject to a Penalty Charge Notice and, in the case of repeat offences, licensing action.
More information on where taxis and private hire vehicles are permitted to stop, wait, drop off and pick up is provided on the TfL website here: https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/taxis-and-private-hire/parking-information?intcmp=41584.

A12 - Pettits Lane junction

Keith Prince: In view of the Mayor’s continued commitment to walking and cycling, could he please encourage TfL to redouble their efforts in ensuring a safe crossing for school children at Pettits Lane?

The Mayor: Transport for London (TfL) continues to progress the A12 Pettits Lane junction scheme through design. The next stage is to undertake detailed traffic modelling to assess the impact of the proposed scheme, which incorporates signalised pedestrian crossings on the eastern side of the junction. The pedestrian footbridge on the western side of the junction remains a crossing option over the A12.
TfL aims to continue to move this scheme forward, subject to the constraints of the Government funding deal agreed on 1 June following the devastating impact of the pandemic on TfL’s finances. Further clarity is expected to be provided in TfL’s revised Budget in July.

Cycle parking at stations (2)

Elly Baker: Please provide an update on your work with Network Rail to deliver large cycle parking hubs at rail termini in central London.

The Mayor: The Cycle Parking Implementation Plan (Transport for London (TfL), 2019) sets out a strategic, evidence-based approach to delivering cycle parking across London.In line with this plan, TfL is committed to supporting Network Rail in its efforts to deliver cycle parking at rail termini in central London. The plan is available here: http://content.tfl.gov.uk/cycle-parking-implementation-plan.pdf
TfL is a member of the national Cycle Rail Working Group (CRWG), which brings together Network Rail, the Train Operating Companies and other transport industry and passenger organisations to improve access to the rail network for people using bicycles. TfL contributed to the development of the CRWG’s UK Cycle Parking Standard, which is due to be published this summer. The standard is intended to provide a best practice guide to support the delivery and management of cycle parking equipment at rail stations across the country.

Cycle parking at stations (1)

Elly Baker: The cycle parking benchmark for all stations outside Zone 1 is to provide a minimum of 20 cycle parking spaces within 50 metres of the station and a minimum 30 per cent spare capacity. How many stations currently meet the benchmark and how many do not?

The Mayor: Prior to the pandemic, 278 of the 576 stations audited outside zone 1 had 20 or more cycle parking spaces within 50 metres of the station entrance, with 214 of these stations having 30 per cent or more spare cycle parking capacity.
In 2020/21, a further 142 permanent and 400 temporary cycle parking spaces were installed within 50 metres of the entrance of London Underground stations outside of zone 1. This resulted in a further nine stations meeting the 20 or more spaces benchmark, taking the total to 287.
Transport for London will undertake occupancy audits later this year, allowing it to implement an evidence-based approach to target cycle parking demand.

Motorcycle Parking at The Crystal (1)

Keith Prince: In your answer to question 2021/1359, you claimed that, with regard to proposed motorcycle parking provision at the Crystal, “changes were made to the proposals to reflect London Plan policy requirements on motorcycle parking.” Please provide details, including full and exact quotations, of how the London Plan prohibits motorcycle parking provision.

The Mayor: Policy T6 (Car Parking) states that ‘where provided, each motorcycle parking space should count towards the maximum for car parking spaces at all use classes’. Although the planning permission is for a sui generis use it will mainly operate like an office. The site also lies within the Royal Docks and Beckton Opportunity Area and is classed as inner London. Based on London Plan policy T6.2 (Office parking) and the maximum parking standards set out, the development would not be expected to provide any general car parking for staff and visitors, and so motorcycle parking would not be appropriate.
A reduction in motorcycle provision is also supported by the following Mayoral policies and strategies.

Access Barriers

Elly Baker: What does TfL class as a physical infrastructure access barrier? Please also provide information on how many barriers of each type exist in London.

The Mayor: Transport for London (TfL) defines a physical infrastructure access barrier as anything that presents a barrier to travel on its network within the physical environment. This can include any element within the environment and barriers can differ depending on an individual’s accessibility requirements.
Historically, physical barriers have been installed on pavements, cycle lanes, footways and at park entrances to prevent access by illegal vehicles. However, the design of such barriers can also prevent access by legitimate users, including people pushing buggies and prams, wheelchairs and mobility scooter users, people using adaptive bicycles or trikes and others.
London’s footways, cycleways, parks and other green spaces are enjoyed by so many people to exercise, relax and meet friends, particularly during the COVID lockdowns. It is important that all Londoners can access these areas and enjoy them.
Most of these barriers are on borough roads and footways. There is no London-wide record of the number or location of all of these. I have asked TfL to work with key stakeholder groups to update guidance and work with boroughs on the designs of physical barriers so that they consider needs of all legitimate users.

Night-Time Economy – Night Tube

Hina Bokhari: In your manifesto you emphasised the importance of getting London’s night-time economy up and running as we recover from the pandemic. However, the TfL Commissioner recently suggested that the Night Tube may not re-open until 2022. Do you not think that such a lengthy delay in re-opening the Night Tube could damage the recovery of central London’s night-time economy?

The Mayor: Transport for London (TfL) is playing, and will continue to play, a full role in London’s recovery from the pandemic. The Night Tube plays a critical role in supporting London’s world-renowned night-time economy, and both TfL and I are committed to bringing back all of our Night Tube lines.
The Tube continues to operate between approximately 05:30 and 00:30 through central London from Monday to Saturday, and services have been extended on Sunday mornings to mitigate the impact of the suspension of Night Tube. TfL’s extensive night bus network also continues to operate.
The full introduction of Night Tube services is not possible in the immediate future due to a number of factors. This includes the continuing need to use Night Tube drivers during the day to run as much service as possible when demand is at its highest. Before reintroducing the Night Tube, TfL needs to be confident it can continue to provide extensive services for higher-demand times of day.
TfL is continuing to review its options for when it might be able to reintroduce the full Friday and Saturday Night Tube in a safe and viable way. This includes exploring the feasibility of reintroducing some services on one or two lines more quickly.